David Jason supports 'Darling Buds' village

David Jason has stepped into a row over a threat to the village where he became a popular figure during filming of The Darling Buds of May television series.

He has called for action to prevent "an environmental disaster" at Pluckley, Kent, where a waste recycling plant is planned.

Villagers say its construction, on an old brickworks site, would result in hundreds of lorries a week rumbling through the village and past the 14th century church.

Jason said in a statement: "While appreciating that waste needs to be disposed of, it would be a tragedy if such a beautiful area of England were spoiled."

Jackie Grebby, the clerk of Pluckley parish council, said: "The roads were built for horses and carts - just as was shown in The Darling Buds of May. Everyone here is furious and we'll fight to stop this."